N. Clackamas Principals Challenge First Responders For Charity

HAPPY VALLEY, OR — On Nov. 16, first responders will take on Happy Valley school principals in a race to grab groceries for a fundraiser benefitting Operation Santa and the North Clackamas School District's Wichita Center.

Sponsored by Fred Meyer, the principals and Clackamas Fire and Happy Valley police first responders will be given five minutes to race through the Crossroads Fred Meyers store to fill their carts with all the staples of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner — turkey, taters, green beans, pumpkin pie, and more. After they've filled their carts, Happy Valley residents will get to place bids in a 24-hour auction for the groceries, with the proceeds going to two different charities.

The first responders will donate their auction proceeds to Operation Santa, an arm of Clackamas Fire that works with the Clackamas Emergency Services Foundation to assist Clackamas County families in-need during the holidays. According to Happy Valley spokesman Steve Campbell, Operation Santa collected and delivered more than 36,000 pounds of food and more than 8,000 toys to more than 500 families last year.

"Last year the event was a lot of fun, but more importantly, it brought attention to a great community organization," Campbell said in a statement. "We look forward to this challenge benefiting two programs this year, reaching even more community members in need."

The principals plan to donate their proceeds to the North Clackamas School District's Wichita Center.

The Wichita Center, Campbell explained, connects students and families with county health and social services, which provide food, clothes, hygiene products, and school supplies.

So, visit the city of Happy Valley Facebook page Nov. 16 to place your bid and support a worthy cause.

Photo Courtesy: City of Happy Valley